Luke Ronchi bids farewell to international cricket

The Black Caps’ keeper-batsman Luke Ronchi has announced his retirement from international cricket, and said he will remember his stint with New Zealand cricket as a career highlight.

Ronchi, who also represented Australia earlier in his career, added the time is right for him to now focus on his family. However, he will continue to play for Wellington, and in the T20 circuit around the world; he is set represent Leicestershire in the upcoming NatWest T20 Blast.

The 36-year-old has played four Tests and 117 limited-overs international matches, and was an integral part of the 2015 World Cup side that reached the final of the grand event. He averaged 23.67 in ODIs at a rate of 114.50, and 18.89 in T20s at 141.33, was particularly famed for his hard hitting skills.

“It was a dream come true,” Ronchi said of his time in Black Caps’ shirt.

“I can’t think of a better time to have been involved with New Zealand cricket. From the 2015 World Cup campaign, through to the overseas tours of that time and some amazing games and series, it’s been a genuine highlight for me.

“It would also be remiss of me to not acknowledge the incredible support provided by my wife Shaan and our children Brody and Indi. Cricket takes you away from home for long periods of time, and my family have been very understanding,” he said.

New Zealand’s coach Mike Hesson lauded Ronchi’s selfless attitude and said he is the epitome of a professional cricket player and role model.

“We’ll remember Luke fondly for the energy he created in the field and his selfless attitude towards the team,” said Hesson.

“He was always prepared to play a role for the greater good of the team; to do what was required even if that risked sacrificing his wicket.

“Luke was one of the best glovemen going around and I think that’s often overlooked in a game increasingly dominated by batting and run-scoring,” added Hesson. “He was a very skilful wicketkeeper, and a very destructive batsman.

“We’ll miss having him around the group and we wish him well in his future endeavours.”